Gallio
Gallio: a popular tourist destination at the foot of the Altopiano dei Sette Comuni
Gallio is a municipality in the Veneto region, located at the foot of the Altopiano dei Sette Comuni and well-known for both winter and summer tourism. With its 2368 inhabitants, it sits at an altitude of 1093m above sea level and is the highest municipality in the province of Vicenza.
The origin of the name Gallio
The toponym Gallio has a history dating back to the year 983, when the Longara mountain was mentioned. In 1162, instead, the "terra que vocatur Galade" was mentioned. According to scholars, the name Gallio derives from the Latin "Galatus", which should be intended as an anthroponym rather than having a Germanic origin, as previously thought.
The history of Gallio
Gallio has a story to tell that begins in the 11th century and features the various members of the Ezzelini family as protagonists. The town suffered the heavy consequences of the First World War, which almost completely razed it to the ground after the famous battle of the Altipiani.
Gallio during the First World War
Like all the other municipalities of the Altopiano dei Sette Comuni, Gallio was directly involved in the events of the First World War. After the famous battle of the Altipiani, the town was heavily bombed by Austro-Hungarian troops, almost completely destroying it. Today, Gallio still has remnants of these historical events, such as the Forte Verena and the Asiago Military Shrine.
Tourism in Gallio
Gallio is a renowned tourist destination for its winter activities, such as cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, and ski jumping. In the summer, on the other hand, hiking and mountain biking can be enjoyed while discovering the unspoiled nature of the Venetian mountains. The town also offers a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars to satisfy every need, as well as artisanal workshops where typical local products can be tasted.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Gallio is a municipality with an important historical past that has managed to transform its difficulties into opportunities for revitalization through tourism. Thanks to its privileged location at the foot of the Altopiano dei Sette Comuni, Gallio stands as an ideal destination for a stay focused on discovering nature and sports.
